South Korea emerged victorious at the 2025 EAFF E-1 Women's Football Championship in Suwon on Wednesday, securing their first title in two decades after a decisive 2-0 win over Chinese Taipei. Meanwhile, China finished second following a hard-fought 0-0 draw with Japan in rain-soaked conditions.
The final matchday saw dramatic tension as China, Japan, and South Korea all finished with five points each. The three teams were separated by goals scored under tournament rules, with South Korea claiming the championship with three goals, followed by China (two) and Japan (one). Chinese Taipei finished fourth with three losses.
China's clash with Japan became a battle against both opponents and the elements, with torrential rain disrupting play throughout. Despite aggressive pressing and quick transitions from both sides, neither team could convert chances into goals. Japanese midfielder Hana Takahashi came closest to breaking the deadlock with two stoppage-time attempts that narrowly missed the target.
China's coach Ante Milicic praised his team's resilience: "Both teams worked hard despite the climate. I'm proud of the way my team played and fought." The result marks China's strongest EAFF Championship performance since 2010.
South Korea's triumph, their second in tournament history following their 2005 victory, underscores the growing competitiveness of women's football across East Asia. The tournament outcomes highlight shifting dynamics in regional sports, with all three top teams demonstrating near-parity in skill and strategy.
